Northern Westchester Leaders Look Back On A Memorable 2013

Greg Ball, seen here donating clothes to the Montrose VA Hospital in Cortlandt, said 2013 was a great year for Team Ball.Photo Credit: Courtesy of Greg BallFrank Catalina's upset win as mayor of Peekskill was one of 2013's top stories in Northern Westchester.Photo Credit: Courtesy of Frank Catalina

More Articles news

comment

NORTHERN WESTCHESTER COUNTY, N.Y. -- Lawmakers are reflecting on a 2013 that certainly was not lacking for excitement.

Peekskill saw the Democrats lose their 7-0 edge on the Common Council. In an Election Day upset, three-term Mayor Mary Foster was defeated by lawyer Frank Catalina. The Republicans picked up two other seats on the common council.

"It was a tremendous year," Catalina said.

Catalina ran for office, ran his law practice and served his local rotary.

"It was a tremendous strain on my life and time," Catalina said. "I was able to accomplish it through good friends and good helpers. We had a compelling well received message. I am overwhelmed with the hope, faith and confidence the city's residents has put in me."

County Legislator John Testa, whose district covers Peekskill, Cortlandt and Yorktown, had a good 2013. He retired from teaching at Peekskill High School after 33 years and was re-elected to a third term on the board.

Testa said he feels the new regime in Peekskill will help turn around the fiscal and economic slide he said occurred in the city over the last six years.

"I look forward to working with the new council to bring Peekskill back to where is once was and making a turn in the positive direction," Testa said.

Legislator Catherine Borgia, who represents Ossining, Peekskill and Cortlandt, was re-elected to a third term and elected majority leader of the Democrats.

State Senator Greg Ball said it was a wonderful year for Team Ball.

"We continue to push everyday delivering for taxpayers, children, working families, seniors, veterans and small business owners," Ball said.

Ball said he worked to deliver a state budget that controlled spending and reduced taxes.

"I worked hard this past year to pass a total of 29 bills that I either sponsored or co-sponsored that passed through both the Senate and Assembly," Ball said.

Ball touted the passing of Hannah's Law after five years. The law is named after an 8-year old Yorktown girl who suffers from an eosinophilic disorder. Ball also said he helped strengthen animal cruelty laws.

"This has been a great year for Team Ball and we look forward to a strong 2014 session," Ball said.